Karaköy is one of Istanbul’s most impressive districts. With a rich history stretching from the Byzantine period through the Ottoman Empire to the modern Republic of Turkey, this area is a must-see for every tourist visiting Istanbul. After exploring the magnificent historical structures in Sultanahmet, Karaköy, which is easily accessible, will take you on a completely different historical journey.
Historical Importance of Karaköy
Karaköy, formerly known as Galata, is one of Istanbul’s oldest commercial centers. Located on the northern shore of the Golden Horn, this area has been used as a trade center by the Genoese, Venetians, and Ottomans for centuries. The most striking structure in the region is the Galata Tower, built by the Genoese in the 14th century.
Historical Structures Worth Seeing in Karaköy
Galata Tower
An indispensable part of Istanbul’s skyline, Galata Tower was built in 1348 by the Genoese. This 67-meter-high tower offers a unique panoramic view of Istanbul. From the observation deck at the top of the tower, you can see the magnificent view of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and the Historical Peninsula.
Underground Mosque (Kurşunlu Mahzen Mosque)
Built on a cistern from the Byzantine period, the Underground Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most interesting mosques. This underground mosque is one of the rare structures where you can see the historical texture extending from the Byzantine period to the Ottoman era.
Banks Street
Used as a financial center during the last period of the Ottoman Empire, Banks Street houses magnificent examples of Neo-Classical buildings from the 19th century. These buildings include the Ottoman Bank (now SALT Galata) and other historical banks.
Karaköy Greek Orthodox Church
Built in 1793, this church is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Greek community in Istanbul. The church is one of the most important structures reflecting the religious and cultural diversity of Karaköy.
A Historical Culinary Stop: Yelkenci Karaköy
After exploring the historical texture of Karaköy, Yelkenci Karaköy is one of the most famous fish restaurants in the area, an ideal stop to rest and taste Istanbul’s unique flavors. Especially preferred by tourists in Sultanahmet, this venue offers a combination of fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine.
At Yelkenci Karaköy, appetizers and main dishes made from fresh fish from the Bosphorus, combined with Turkish hospitality, offer an unforgettable dining experience. For tourists who have explored the historical sites in Sultanahmet and discovered the historical texture of Karaköy, Yelkenci Karaköy is a perfect stop where they can relax and taste the unique flavors of Turkish cuisine.
How to Get to Karaköy from Sultanahmet?
Getting to Karaköy from Sultanahmet is quite easy. You can reach the area directly by getting off at the Karaköy tram stop. It’s possible to reach Karaköy with approximately a 15-20 minute tram ride from Sultanahmet.
For those who prefer walking, you can reach Karaköy by crossing over the Galata Bridge with a pleasant 25-30 minute walk. During this walk, you will have the opportunity to observe Istanbul’s unique scenery and daily life.
Conclusion
Karaköy, one of Istanbul’s most impressive districts, is a place every tourist should see with its rich historical and cultural heritage. After visiting the historical places in Sultanahmet, you can explore the historical structures in Karaköy, which is easily accessible by tram or on foot, and taste fresh seafood at Yelkenci Karaköy. This unique experience will add a different dimension to your Istanbul trip and help you create unforgettable memories.
If you are visiting Istanbul, don’t forget to stop by Karaköy after exploring the historical sites in Sultanahmet and taste the flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine at Yelkenci Karaköy. This will be a perfect experience to complete your trip to Istanbul.
